Newest Family Flyer

Welcome to the 2017-2018 School Year! Get acquainted with our staff and see what you have in common with us.

Ms. Tina Bogucharova 应婷校长– Principal

I am Chinese-American, born and raised in Taiwan. In 1986 my family immigrated to the United States where we settled in San Leandro, California. I didn’t learn to speak English until I was 11 years old and my parents insisted that we speak Mandarin at home. I remember feeling confused about my identity, was I Chinese or American? I went to the University of California, Irvine for my BA in Psychology and Chinese Literature and Teachers College, Columbia University for my MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. During these formative years I learned a lot about myself and others like me who also have dual identities and languages. My parents, by insisting on keeping the Chinese language and culture alive at home, instilled a sense of belongingness and curiosity that would forever govern how I choose to live my life. In my twenties, I went through a mild wanderlust period during which I lived and taught English in China, Japan and New York. Although I have been teaching since 2000, my first certificated public school teaching job was in 2005 in Queens, New York, where I taught 4th grade at P.S. 116. That job transformed me as an educator. For the first time, I felt a sense of immense urgency to serve the children in our public schools. As a classroom teacher I watched my students fail and thrive, and it taught me that teaching requires a tremendous amount of ingenuity, perseverance, and love. In 2007, I moved to Seattle and joined Bellevue School District as an ELL Facilitator and Newcomer Center teacher at Newport Heights Elementary. In 2011, I helped launch the Mandarin Dual Language program at Ardmore and served as the Instructional Leader and Curriculum Developer until 2015 when I transitioned to Cherry Crest Elementary School as the Assistant Principal. Last year I celebrated my 10th year working in the Bellevue School District. I am excited to continue in year two of leading Jing Mei and making it a place of learning for all kids, parents, and staff members.

Lastly, I feel especially connected to the students of Jing Mei because like me they have parents who have the foresight of giving them the best gift of all: An opportunity to have two souls.

“To have another language is to possess a second soul.” ~Emperor Charlemagne

Ms. Vicky Mai 麥清榆辦公主任 – Office Manager

It has been a pleasure to be part of the Jing Mei family. I was born and raised in China before immigrating to Seattle at the age of 10. Since then, I have developed a passion for the Chinese Language and an appreciation for the Chinese culture. Fueled by bits and pieces of memory from my childhood of China and from the stories of my parents and ancestors, I followed my passion and explored Chinese history, its culture, language and people. I graduated with a B.A. from the University of Washington with a triple major in Chinese Language and Literature, Sociology and International Studies with an emphasis in Asia. Aside from my education, I also maintained a vigorous professional schedule while on campus. My professional experience included two positions as an administrative assistant providing administrative support to various supervisors, students and clients. I am eager to continue making a positive contribution at Jing Mei by providing my best assistance to the principal, staff, parents, students and to the public.

Hello, my name is Regina Xie. I grew up in Wuhan, China, a blistering city full of fiery and passionate people. After I graduated from South Central Instituted of Political Science and Law with a degree in economic law, I moved to Seattle. Prior to joining Jing Mei, I worked at Harmony Chinese Bilingual Pre-School as a director for seven years. There, I discovered the influence of a teacher and the importance of education on children as well as the connection between language and culture.

I have two lovely children. They are the reason for my passion and motivation to teach. Every step of their growth teaches me something new as they allow me to learn from different perspectives.

When I am not at work, I like to take care of my orchids and succulents. I enjoy trying cuisines from different parts of the world, or hiking with my family and friends. But my favorite pastime is to be at home, curled up with a book and a blanket.

I cannot wait to start working at Jing Mei, and I am very excited to meet each and every one of you! Hope we can have a great time together and create an inclusive learning environment and welcoming multicultural community!

Hello! My name is Xing Wei. I am so excited to be part of the Jing Mei community. I was born and raised in Guangdong, China. When I was young, I spoke Mandarin with my parents and spoke Cantonese with my classmates and teachers. I also learned English from my English tutor. I enjoy learning and speaking different languages and I feel proud of being bilingual and biliterate. It definitely shapes my identity and personality.

I obtained my B. ED degree from University of Macau, majoring in Pre-primary Education (3-6 years old). I worked as a full time teacher at a trilingual school during my senior year of college. I have witnessed students making great progress in learning Mandarin and English. To better equip myself as an early childhood educator, I decided to go to Teachers College, Columbia University for my MA degree. Now I am certified as a teacher of Early Childhood Education, Students with Disabilities and Bilingual Education (Birth to Grade 2). Throughout the learning journey in Teachers College, I student taught in different settings, including general kindergarten classroom, bilingual preschool classroom, and self-contained kindergarten/first grade classroom. Teaching in different settings dedicates myself to be a teacher of diverse learners. My goal is to maintain a safe, open, positive and supportive environment so every child can achieve his/her personal potentials at full capacity.

In addition to teaching, I enjoy reading, swimming, hiking as well as playing squash. Having access to all these activities makes Seattle a wonderful place to live! I am also excited and looking forward to a brand new year of learning and growth at Jing Mei!

Hi everyone, my name is Dongni Hu. I am from Chengdu, China. I love my hometown! It has cute pandas and delicious Sichuanese cuisine. I had a very happy childhood growing up in this lovely city. I was very lucky to have the opportunity to come to the US to receive my higher education, I was impressed and inspired by the diversity here. I worked super hard to study English and then Spanish as my third language. I truly believe that learning a language is a best way to learn about a culture. During my undergrad years at Calvin College in Michigan, I studied and taught abroad in Ghana for half a year. This experience made me realize how teaching can make meaningful impact on others’ lives. Since then I loved teaching. After graduating from college, I worked as a Chinese immersion kindergarten teacher in a private school. Later when I moved to Seattle, I pursued Seattle University’s Master in Teaching program and completed my internship here at Jingmei’s Kingdergarten class! I spent a year teaching in Seattle School District but now I am more than happy to be back at Jingmei. I will do everything I can to get to know every child and enters my classroom and create a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable classroom for all the children.

Ms. Yingjing Lin林颖菁- Kindergarten Homeroom 幼儿园

Hi, my name is Yingjing Lin. My friends call me Jing. I am so thrilled to be a part of Jing Mei family and can’t wait to start my new journey here! I had been teaching in elementary schools for years and worked as a website and graphic designer before came to the United States. After receiving my master’s degree in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology from State University of New York, I moved to Seattle with my husband. I joined Bellevue School District last year as a preschool teacher. This school year I will work with all grades as an Instructional Assistant.

I strive to help students and create a caring, safe, and engaging learning environment, which encourages students to believe in themselves and to do their personal best.

I grew up in the Taiwan. I attended Eastern Washington University, and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. During my student teaching, I was amazed to find how much I loved it, and how rewarding it felt to be part of my students’ discoveries and successes. I have an endorsement in elementary education, and K-12 Arts from the State of Washington. I taught Chinese in Spokane for 2 years, working with children ages 3 to 11 years old. When I moved to Bellevue in 2010, I was an Assistant Director at KinderCare. I have developed strong teacher/parent-relations with regards to their child’s over all development and growth. Within my broad management experience I have found a passion and strength in recruiting, on-boarding, and training.

Before Jing Mei, I was a Special Ed Para-educator at Phantom Lake Elementary. I enjoy teaching children to think outside of the box, and then helping each of them individually with their progress. My goal is to discover their potential, and then track their growth. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to help the students in my class cultivate a lifelong love of learning, a sense of compassion for their peers, and a strong foundation for success.

I met my husband when I was in college, and we have been together for 21 years. We currently have no children or pets. I am the type of person who loves to try things “just for the experience.” I enjoy, cooking, traveling, and time with friends and family.

Ms. Bing Liu刘冰-First Grade Homeroom 一年级

My name is Bing Liu. I am so excited to be a part of the Jing Mei family. I was born and raised in northeast of China, Changchun, which is a very cold city. When I started reading as a little girl, I fell in love with literature, which opened my world, enriched my mind and kindled the light of hope for my life. I got my bachelor and first master degree in Chinese linguistics and literature in China. After I graduated, I have one-year full-time teaching experience in Jiefang middle school in China. Every class for me was a precious chance to grow up with children. The affection and inspiration I got from my precious students gave me huge confidence to insist on teaching.

Then I decided to continue my learning. I hope to know more about other country’s education and advanced teaching methods and skills. So I came to America and got my second master degree in TESOL program in Seattle University. The learning experience in America gave me a lot of ideas about the comparison and integration between the languages and cultures of America and China. I hope my classroom is a place for students to feel safe, comfortable and happy to develop their critical thinking ability and multi-cultural awareness.

I often ask myself: “What makes a good educator?” It is not until I became a teacher myself that I had a new understanding of education. For me, not only is it a career but more of a kind of responsibility, belief, and passion. Education is the most important part of everyone’s life, which is reflected through countless common incidents in our lives. I think the small incidents in education have framed the big concept. My objective is to make changes to education from those tiny details in classroom which could make a big difference!

Welcome to Ms. Lin’s kindergarten classroom. My name is Ling-Hsiu Lin and I will be your child’s kindergarten teacher this year. I am looking forward to an exciting and productive year with your child.

Raised in Taiwan, I have been teaching Chinese since 2003 while I was studying in Japan as an international student. I find it incredibly fulfilling to introduce children to this language, and to make learning Mandarin as fun as possible. Over the years, I finished a B.A degree in Japanese literature and culture. I also obtained my Teaching Chinese as a Second Language Certificates in Taiwan and my teaching certificates in K12 world language and general elementary education in Washington State. I earned my master’s degree in learning and technology, and continue to pursue ongoing professional development and attend educational conferences to ensure your child is receiving the highest quality education.

During my free time, I enjoy playing piano, listening to music, reading and chatting with friends in a coffee shop. Going to gym to do yoga and Zumba classes are my new hobbies acquired during the summer. I really hope I can find some time to try out stand up paddle boarding. However, the thing I enjoy the most is to spend time with my husband and daughter. This is me, and I can’t wait to know more about you.

I love teaching! My mission as a teacher is to help children discover the joy of learning and to help each child develop confidence in his or her own abilities. I want them to do their best and to have a sense of pride in doing their personal best. I am thrilled to explore all kinds of fun ways to learn and I’m looking forward to getting to know you and your child.

I come from Taiwan. I am the older of two children in my family. Both my parents are retired government workers who put great emphasis on my education and allowed me the freedom to develop my own individuality. My family values and my respect to the elderly have taught me to be mature and self-reliant. My motto is: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way”.

I have been inspired to become a teacher since my early childhood. To accomplish my goal, I have acquired a bachelor degree in education and a master degree. I have a K-12 teacher certificate from Taiwan. I taught two years in kindergarten and six years in elementary school. I married my husband and moved to Seattle three and a half years ago. I have taught Chinese since then and this will be my second year with the Bellevue School District. I am very excited about this wonderful opportunity and I am fully committed to continue my passion to teach and to educate. I have tremendous respect for the great thinker and educator, John Dewey. His education philosophy focuses on meaningful learning activities and classroom democracy. Learning by doing and development of practical life skills is crucial to children’s education. My teaching center on children’s learning process and not the end result. The end result is important but happy and democratic learning environment can help children gain valuable life experience and provide them with instruments of effective self-direction.

My aspiration is to allow the children to have freedom for development and the ability to discover their hidden potentials. At the same time, I will continue my professional development and give my best effort to the Jing-Mei school community.

My name is Han Zhang. Since the first time I came to Bellevue, I have been enthralled by the beautiful scenery, moved by everyone’s compassionate support, and the enthusiasm with which the students approached the Chinese language. As such, I am thrilled to return to Jing Mei Elementary School for my second year.
I grew up in a Chinese province known for its diversity of culture and language. Two years ago, I came to the U.S to continue my post-baccalaureate education and obtained my master degree in Elementary Education at Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. My teacher education program provided me great opportunities to work hands-on with students in classroom settings. During this time, I discovered my passion in a dual language instruction while completing an internship at a dual language public school in Cambridge. Thereafter, I pursued my full time practicum in a mainstream public school in Arlington, Massachusetts. I hope to bring my theoretic knowledge obtained from Lesley University and professional experience from teaching in different school settings together to guide students in their academic and emotional development.

The study of language is not just learning to read and write; it is also a portal to learning about and understanding a different culture and tradition. My goal is to build a caring, nurturing, and exciting place of learning where students can grow academically and emotionally. I believe it is essential to foster a climate of high self-esteem, dedication to school and community, and a strong desire for life-long learning. I hope, through our combined efforts, to instill in our children a commitment to learning, critical thinking, curiosity, and desire to be challenged so that they may find joy in learning.

I was born and raised in Jiangsu, P.R. China. I have been interested in teaching for a long time. During my college years in Shanghai, I majored in teaching Chinese as a foreign language and minored in applied psychology. After graduating from East China Normal University, a passion for Chinese teaching led me to New York University, where I accomplished my M.A. in Teaching Chinese and TESOL, and got teaching certificates for both majors. I’m an energetic, enthusiastic and creative teacher, with 2.5 years of experience teaching in immersion schools and 6 years of part-time teaching experience. I’d like to see my students feeling excited about school and learning.

I am thrilled to be a part of the Jing Mei community as a 2nd grade teacher this year since I genuinely enjoy and feel passionate teaching in a bilingual and multicultural educational environment. Before moving to Washington, I earned my Master’s Degree in Education from Teachers College, Columbia University with New York Teacher Certificates in K-12 Math and Chinese. During my graduate study, I was a part-time middle school Chinese teacher at The Lycée Français de New York. After graduation, I taught Chinese at Stuyvesant High School in New York for one year. This will be my first year at the Bellevue School District, and previously I was teaching K5-8 Mandarin at a NWAIS (Northwest Association of Independent Schools) member school in West Seattle for two years. My classroom practice has always been embracing hands-on and inquiry oriented projects, which aims to develop students creative thinking and problem solving skills. Besides, I believe whole heartedly that every child has their own unique talent, so as a teacher, I am fully committed to helping them achieving their potentials.

Outside classroom, I enjoy cooking Chinese dishes and exploring exotic food! I like hiking，skiing and having picnic with friends in a sunny day. But I would also enjoy reading a book myself at home in Seattle raining days!

This will be my third year teaching at Jing Mei Elementary School. I have enjoyed being in the community and watched the children grow and learn. Before joining Jing Mei, I taught in the Mandarin Immersion Program at Ben Franklin Elementary School in Vancouver Washington. I taught classes from Kindergarten to 2nd grade for four years. This experience had allowed me to practice various teaching strategies in language acquisition. I was amazed by how much potential each child has within himself in learning more than one language.

I came to the United States in 2006 from Taiwan for my graduate study in Education with a focus on Montessori Education. Upon receiving my degree, I worked as a preschool Montessori teacher and Chinese teacher in New York. Because of my husband’s job relocation, we settled in the west coast. After two years of study in Elementary Education at City University of Seattle, I was officially on my journey of fulfilling my passion to Mandarin teaching.

Aside from work, I enjoy cooking, hiking and spending time with my family. Having two children of my own has taught me to pay more attention and be patient to each child’s developmental need, as well as to help children discover their strengths and interests in learning. I truly believe that love is the fundamental element of every motivation. Guiding children to love and learn is one of a teacher’s most important responsibilities. I strive my best to foster such environment for children to grow. I look forward to the year of learning, enrichment and growth with the community.

Ni-hao! My name is Julie and I am excited to be returning to Jing Mei as the English instruction 3rd grade teacher! I completed my Master of Education and English Language Learner endorsement from University of Washington – Tacoma in June 2014.

I grew up in the small town of Enumclaw, about 45 minutes south of Bellevue and am excited about my new home in the Bellevue area, along with the new friends and neighbors I get to meet. One of the aspects that attracted me to Jing Mei was its mission to provide dual immersion instruction, something that is not found very often in US public schools. I am a firm believer in dual language instruction and believe that it does not hamper a child’s acquisition of another language, but actually can enhance it. That was one of the many reasons that made me add the ELL endorsement to my graduate program before graduating. I believe that each child’s language and culture is an asset, not a hindrance to the classroom. During my college studies and informally on my personal time, I have had the opportunity to study French, Spanish – worked with many Spanish speaking ELLs in my student teaching – Italian, and Albanian –had the opportunity to teach music in Albanian to children as part of a college course. While I know very little Chinese, I am eager to learn more of the language and culture in order to support my students and enhance their learning and to be able to learn more from my students.

My teaching background started formally about nine years ago, when I enrolled in Early Childhood Education courses for a minor program at Southern Virginia University, my undergraduate school where I received a Bachelor of Arts – Music Major. I was able to enhance those education courses with travel study trips to other countries and in private music instruction over the past few years with students. I worked with young toddlers in a preschool program before working in school districts as a substitute, and finally enrolling in my Master program. One of the many reasons I love the teaching field is because I as a teacher actually get to learn from my students! I used to view teaching as a one-way process, but through my experiences have found it is more of a collaborative effort between students and teacher. I love the bright curiosity children are born with and how they are not afraid to see the world from a different perspective.

In addition to teaching, I am involved in the music community by playing harp. I am currently principal harpist for Ensign Symphony and Chorus, a volunteer group that performs in Benaroya Hall; a member of the South Sound Strings Harp ensemble, a gig harpist for weddings and events, and a private harp instructor to students of various ages. I also love using music in my classroom with my students, whether for instruction or for fun and have enjoyed subbing as a music teacher at different elementary schools. In my free time, I enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Washington, traveling and learning about different cultures, reading anything I can get my hands on, and spending time with friends and family. I have loved learning about the Chinese culture over the years and incorporating aspects of it into my own life, whether through celebrating holidays and traditions; learning about the impact of Chinese philosophy, traditions, and family relationships; or playing Chinese folk music on harp for concerts.

I appreciate the welcome I have been given and look forward to getting to know the Jing Mei family and community even more!

Ms. Zhi Geng 耿智老师 – Fourth Grade Homeroom (Mandarin) 四年级 (中文)

I was born and raised in central China. Both my two parents are teachers. At a very young age, I developed deep understand of the influence a teacher brings to students. My experience as a language tutor in college prompted me to realize how incredibly fulfilling teaching could be. I decided then to devote my career in education and to help students develop the most important tool for communication—language. I came to the United States to pursue a master’s degree in education at University of Pennsylvania. Fortunately, being immersed to the two cultures helped me realized the benefits of knowing the other side of the world and being internationally-minded through learning another language. I would like to pass these benefits on to my students and help them develop to be kind, understanding and accomplished global citizens in the future.

I was born in Taiwan and moved to Washington in first grade. Throughout my childhood, I moved around quite a bit and went to school in Taiwan, China, and the U.S. During my K-12 education, I was fortunate enough to experience the different cultures and languages. With my personal experience with Chinese culture and bilingualism, I am very excited to join Jing Mei Elementary.

In high school, I’ve always had a enjoyed working with kids. I was a classroom volunteer at Tzu Chi Academy for 4 years, interned with a child counselor at a Montessori, and volunteered at various elementary classrooms. I graduated from University of Washington Bothell with a BA in Community Psychology and a minor in Education. After college, I became an Instructional Assistant at Somerset Elementary. During that year, I had an amazing experience working with the students and staff members that helped me solidify my decision to become a teacher. I completed my student teaching at Eastgate Elementary in a first grade classroom. I graduated with a MA in Teaching from Seattle University with an ELL endorsement.

Mr. Eric Huang – 4th Grade Homeroom (Mandarin) 四年级 (中文)

I was born and raised in Taipei, Taiwan. I came to the U.S. to pursue an undergraduate degree in 2003 and have obtained three graduate degrees since. After receiving my first masters’ degree at the University of Hawaii, I worked for the University of Hawaii for six years to develop, design, and promote online courses. While working for the University of Hawaii, I developed an interest in teaching Chinese language and decided to get my second masters’ degree in Chinese language. Before I joined the Jing Mei family, I was teaching 4th and 5th grades STEM at Kirkwood Elementary School in Toppenish. This year (2016-17) will be my second year teaching in K-12 education.

I enjoy travel, food, and cultural events in my free time. I also love outdoor activities and am eager to explore the beautiful Pacific Northwest. I am very excited to join Jing Mei and share my experience as well as learn from my fellow teachers to provide our students a culturally and academically rich learning environment.

I am excited to be back at Jing Mei as your 4th and 5thgrade English time teacher. I grew up in Hawaii and have lived in the Pacific Northwest continuously since 1983.

My formal education include degrees from the University of Oregon (B.S. ’87 Elementary Education, M.S. ’89 Curriculum & Instruction), and Washington State University (Ed.D. ’15 Education Leadership & Administration). I also attended Portland State University (math endorsement ’92) and Western Washington University (principal endorsement ’97).

This will be my 31st year as a public educator. Prior to joining the Jing Mei learning community, I was a teacher at Cherry Crest Elementary, where I taught 5th grade Prism and GESP, specializing in Mathematics, ELA (English Language Arts) and SEL (Social Emotional Learning). Student leadership, diversity, and equity are also areas of professional expertise and personal interests.

Prior to joining Bellevue School District, I served the communities of Seattle, Renton, Coupeville, Issaquah, Beaverton, and Ashland as a teacher and principal. I’ve been a teacher for a wide range of learners (age 4 to 62+), at all levels (elementary, middle, high, and university), in a variety of settings (suburban, rural, urban), and subject areas (specializing in mathematics and gifted education). What I find most rewarding about education is helping people reach their fullest potential and students have described me to be strict yet fun.

Since I tend to be on the quiet side when I’m not at work, you can find me enjoying: reading, listening to music, traveling, dining out, cooking, walking, doing calligraphy, surfing the internet, knitting, watching international films, seeing live theatre, putting together puzzles, playing games, spending time with friends and family, or simply sleeping. I also love to laugh. I’m not a big shopping person so I do most of my shopping online at Amazon.com. I’m a serious water and tea drinker and prefer savory treats rather than sweets.

I am excited to be part of this special learning community again this year!

My learning experience from schools engraved a strong educational philosophy that has remained with me throughout my life. My teachers made very essential influence on my life and inspired me to pursue my career as an educator who can makes a positive impact in my students’ life. Before I came to the Bellevue School District, I finished my education degree in City University of New York. Then I taught in a Dual Language public school in Manhattan for elementary levels. In summer 2013, I joined Bellevue School District and started to teach in Jing Mei at a second grade class. Now I am excited and looking forward to working with students and teachers in my new role as the Instructional Technology and Curriculum Leader.

My name is Monica Lo and I am honored to be part of the team at Jing Mei Elementary for the third year. I was born and raised in Taiwan until age thirteen before coming to Seattle. I have also lived in Shanghai and Hangzhou. Prior to coming to Jing Mei, I taught and developed the Mandarin program at Eastside Catholic School. I also taught middle school and high school English for a total of five years for the Highline School District and Eastside Catholic School. Before this, I taught English Language Arts in Hangzhou and Shanghai. I strongly believe that bilingualism is an essential skill of the 21st century, especially when it involves a powerful and historical language—Mandarin. I am ecstatic to work for such a progressive dual immersion school that continues to foster our students in a linguistically, cognitively, and creatively challenging environment, and I look forward to showing our students the powers that lie in bilingualism.

My name is Eve Chan and I’m excited to be joining the team as an English Language Learner (ELL) Facilitator and English Language Development (ELD) Instructor. I was an ELD instructor at Sherwood Forest for the past 2 years. Before that, I worked as an assistant teacher at Denver Montclair International School – a foreign language immersion school. I’m originally from Denver, CO where I received my Master’s in Curriculum and Development for Linguistically Diverse Education. Jing Mei seems like the perfect fit for me as I will be interacting in a diverse setting, collaborating with expert teachers, and supporting each and every student towards success.

Ms. Maggie Halela- Mosholder – Guidance Counselor

Hello! I am Maggie Halela-Mosholder. I am very excited to continue as the Jing Mei school counselor this school year. I will be at Jing Mei on Thursdays and Fridays and every other Wednesday. I have a varied background including 10+ years as a Dance/Movement therapist, 9+ years as a school counselor. I am also in my 4th year as a volunteer for the King County Superior Courts as a Court Appointed Special Advocate or C.A.S.A., for foster children. I love to travel, see Broadway shows, practice yoga and be with family and friends. I have a wonderful family and a mini dachshund! I look forward to my continued work with the staff, students and families of Jing Mei this year.

Ms. Kristine Guadiz – Resource Room Teacher

I was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of British Columbia. I have always had a deep love for learning languages which drove me to receive my Bachelor of Education through U.B.C.’s French Immersion B.Ed. program. I later received my Master of Science in Education from Walden University.

Growing up as a Filipino-Canadian, I was surrounded by and embraced the many cultures that my neighborhood, school, extra-curricular and work communities consisted of. Because of this, and after developing a love for travel right after high school (I’ve traveled to over 10 countries so far and look forward to many more!), I realized that being able to communicate with others in their native languages, and building relationships with people from all cultures and backgrounds was why I loved to travel so much. I have also been a piano teacher for 18 years and continue to love playing the piano as one of my favorite past-time activities. Through this one-on-one, individualized instruction, combined with a love for travel, I further realized that teaching was the avenue that I was meant for and that building relationships with my students was how I would be able to make a difference in my classroom.

In August of 2001, I moved to Washington State to teach. This is my 16th year of teaching in public education and I am thrilled to be a part of the Jing Mei community – one who also deeply values culture and language development as I do! In my spare time, I love to take ballet classes, train for half-marathons, ski, play volleyball, basketball, tennis, read, cook and travel with her husband and daughter. I also speak fluent French and conversational Spanish. As Jing Mei’s Special Education Resource Room teacher, my goal is to help equip students with special needs with the skills and knowledge they need to feel and be successful learners and citizens in their classroom and school community.

Ms. Sarah Frost- School Psychologist

Ms. Daphne Tu- School Nurse

Ni Hao! I was born and raised in Taiwan. As a young adult, I came to the U.S. as an international student to pursue my undergraduate degree in Nursing. Like many second language learners, I struggled and faced many language-related challenges along the way. I have since attained a Master in Education, Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, and Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology.

I am excited to return to Jing Mei for my third year as the school nurse. It’s exciting to not only witness but also be a part of the school’s change and growth over the years. Prior to joining Bellevue School District, I worked at various departments in the hospital setting, ranging from the E.R to long term care. In addition, I have worked at Seattle Public Schools, Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Public Health Department of King County. As a nurse, I am a true believer of “yu fong xeng yu zi liao” (an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure). I am also convinced that being healthy encompasses more than just physical health but also includes social, emotional and psychological well-being. I look forward to another great year and the opportunity to work with Jing Mei community!

Ms. Elizabeth D’ Antonio – Art Specialist

Hello and welcome to a wonderful new school year! I am Elizabeth D’Antonio, Art Specialist at Jing Mei and Ardmore Elementary. You can also call me Yishu Laoshi! It is my first year working in the Bellevue School District and I’m so excited to create and grow along with all of my amazing students. Before moving to Washington, I earned my BFA with Emphasis in Art Education from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and my MA from the University of Chicago. I have taught in the Chicago Public School system, in private schools, museums, galleries, and community organizations for over ten years. This year, I will complete my PhD from University College London. My main focus is STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) and discovering how to best help every student learn by connecting all subject areas. It was the arts that helped me love learning – and I want to make sure every student has the opportunity to unlock their creative potential!

I live in Tacoma with my husband and tiny zoo of two retired racing greyhounds, two cats, and three ducks. We love our new home in the Pacific Northwest and spend a lot of time outside enjoying nature (when it isn’t raining)! I could not be more proud to be a part of the Jing Mei community!

Mrs. Charleen Lee – Library Media Specialist

I was born overseas and my family is originally from Taiwan but I grew up and received all of my education in New York City. I have an undergraduate degree in math and elementary education and my masters is in educational technology. I have only taught in the Bellevue School District, two years as a half day kindergarten teacher (at Eastgate and Ardmore) and ten years as the librarian at Stevenson.

Bellevue has been my home for the last 20 years. My house is right behind this school. My sons went to school here when it was Newport Heights and are now out of college running their own startup company. I can speak Chinese but plan on learning how to read and write alongside the students here. My hobbies include gardening, biking, reading and raising more chickens in the future. My favorite thing to do is cooking, canning, baking and eating. I cater parties when I have free time.

I am so excited to be part of the Jing Mei community!

Mr. Rob Lindfors – Music Specialist, Orchestra Teacher

I was born in Sweden and grew up in the capital Stockholm (sometimes called the Venice of the North, due to the many waterways in the city). My mother came from the north of Sweden. My favorite childhood memories are of frequent stays at the family farm she grew up on. My father served in the Swedish Air Force and then flew for SAS (Scandinavian Airlines). Just before I turned ten, we moved to Seattle, my father having taken a job with United Airlines. My father’s father (farfar) lived in Vancouver, B.C., where my father had grown up (in a Swedish household) before returning to Sweden at thirteen with his mother. My farfar published and edited the Swedish Press, distributed throughout North America.

I love teaching music! I began playing guitar in 3rd grade in Sweden. After moving to the United States, I began taking guitar lessons in 5th grade (my 2nd year in the U.S.) while attending Bellewood Elementary in 5th & 6th grade (it has been fun teaching at Jing Mei these last two years in the same school building I once attended). I started teaching guitar in high school, and have continued giving private guitar lessons my entire life. I have often taught young students, and have great memories of students who excelled at the instrument. In high school, my favorite classes were music classes. I met my wife Lise (of Norwegian descent), a fellow music student, in college. We both attended Bellevue College, then Western Washington University in Bellingham, where I majored in music performance, and my wife majored in music education. She now works as an elementary school librarian in the Renton School District.

Upon graduating from college I often performed in jazz bands around town, did some music studio work, taught guitar privately, worked in a record store (Tower Records), and occasionally taught evening music classes at Bellevue College. Later I was hired as a sales rep for a music distribution company, Polygram (later merged with Universal), where I worked for many years. After leaving music sales, I returned to college to be certified to teach music in public schools, obtaining a Master of Arts in Teaching from Seattle Pacific University.

Leaving the field of sales in order to focus on teaching has been most fulfilling. I have taught guitar, piano, orchestra, and composing classes part-time in the Bellevue School District since 2001. This year is my third year of teaching elementary classroom music (K-4), and working with these young students has been especially rewarding for me. I am very pleased to return to Jing Mei as my home school (while this year also teaching orchestra at Bennett Elementary and Odle Middle School). I love seeing the same students year after year, watching them progress musically.

My wife Lise and I greatly enjoy traveling, hiking, reading, and playing music. She plays violin and guitar; I play guitar, piano, and cello. I have a jazz band called Brazz, which performs American jazz standards and Brazilian jazz. It consists of voice, guitar, acoustic bass, and drums, though the singer and I also perform just as a duo. We perform in various locations around town, including at Crossroads this December.

When I first began school in the United States, in fourth grade, I knew few English words (English was not taught in Swedish schools until fourth grade), so I had to learn it by immersion that school year. I strongly believe in Jing Mei’s dual language program, which provides such a wonderful opportunity for a student to become bilingual.

Mr. David Flaherty- PE(Health and Fitness) Specialist

Hi, my name is David Flaherty and I am the PE teacher at Jing Mei Elementary school this year. I am excited to teach Physical Education to all students at this wonderful school. I grew up just a few miles north of here in Kirkland, Washington. I attended Bellevue College and Seattle University. My first 15 years in education I taught grades K, 1, 2, and 4. For the past 7 years I have enjoyed teaching PE in many different Bellevue elementary schools.

I have a beautiful wife, Katy, and two wonderful girls, Isabella and Sophia. My older daughter, Isabella, attends Spiritridge Elementary school as a second grader. For fun, I enjoy reading a variety of genres and traveling with my family to places like Silverwood Theme Park in Idaho. I also enjoy playing many different kinds of games like basketball, tennis, soccer, racquetball, and basketball. One of my goals at Jing Mei is to help students enjoy learning and practicing the skills we use in class.

I am looking forward to a great year here at Jing Mei!

Mr. Paul Gillespie- Band Teacher

Mr. Mike Ngo – Head Custodian (Day)

I am married and has 2 children. My 2 children go to shool in the Bellevue School District. I have been employed in the Bellevue School District for over 9 years. I have worked at sever different schools, including Newport High for 3 years, International School for 3 years and 1 year at Stevenson Elementary. I can Speak Mandarin, Cantonese and Vietnames.

我已婚，有两个孩子。我孩子正在Bellevue学区上学。我在Bellevue学区工作了七年多。我曾经在几个不同的学校工作，包括在Newport High 工作了三年，在国际学校三年，Stevenson小学一年。我可以讲普通话，广东话和越南话。

Mr. Bill Price- Custodian (Night)

Ms. Lihua Wu- General School Assistant

I was born and raised in mainland China. I graduated from China Normal University in China. I obtained my teaching license in China and I have been a secondary school teacher for ten years. I move to Bellevue in 2008. I have been a Chinese teacher for three years in Bel-Red Bilingual Academic School and one year in Northwest Chinese School, I teach level from K to 3th grade.

This year is my third year in Jing Mei as an IA/EA. I am thrilled to be a part of the Jing Mei. I am passionate and very much enjoy working in a bilingual and multicultural educational environment.

I enjoy cooking Chinese dishes and travel with my family in my free time.

Hello, my name is Chen Ling, from Anhui, China. I got BA and MA in English Education from China and MPH from New York State University. I came to US in 2005 and worked in Seattle and bay area. I have been teaching students at various ages (from preschool to high school) with diverse cultures. Being a teacher is my dream. I love the feeling of achievement and enthusiasm when I stay with kids, teaching and sharing their growth.

It is my honor to join in JINGMEI, such a creative two-way immersion school. I am so proud to work for the spread of Chinese language culture and will try my best to serve for more families with our team.

My name is Yan Zhu. Born and educated in China, I spent over five years in Singapore where I got married and had two children. I have ten years working experience in college and one year in international school. I love baking and painting. I’m so happy to join Jing Mei and become a part of this big family!

I am Li-Chuan Miau, for the 2017-2018 school year. At Jing Mei Elementary School, I will be working as a General Instructional Assistant. It is a pleasure of mine to be a part of Jing Mei!

I was raised and grew up in Taipei, Taiwan. Teaching has always been my dream job and although education was not my major, I was able to experience it in many different areas of my career. In 1994, I immigrated to the United States with my family, and moved back to Taiwan in 1999. In 2004 I moved back to Seattle again. With my three children joining the local Chinese school, I began to participate in the administrative work of Chinese school administration, and then joined the ranks of teaching. I have also served as the Substitute Education Assistant in the Issaquah and Bellevue School District. With the new school year, I will help teachers to create a safe and inspiring learning environment.

When I have leisure time, I like reading, walking, traveling, spending time with friends, and participating in the church services. As a believer of Christ, I believe it is my goal to benefit and better help the community. I am very excited to be a part of the Jing Mei community!

I was born and raised in Beijing, China and view Malaysia as my second hometown.

I completed my undergraduate study in Beijing Foreign Studies University with a very uncommon major—-Malay Language and Literature. The passion for this major brought me to my Master’s study at University of Wisconsin-Madison. Here, I greedily learnt Indonesian and Tagalog. I also systematically studied the history and literature of maritime Southeast Asia and completed a research paper on identity issue of overseas Chinese in Dutch East Indies. During my study in Madison, I also tried to unlock my artistic and creative potential.

I joined Jing Mei Elementary after moving to Seattle. I contributed my ability in illustration and produced a number of educational posters and instructional tools for students here in learning Chinese, English, Math and Social Studies. And I felt more grateful that I helped design our Phoenix Ticket, Chinese New Year T-shirt and First Year Graduates T-shirt!

I spent most of my spare time on drawing and reading! I am a member in Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrator and now doing my own picture book this year. I also love hiking, travelling and photographing. My next stop is the summit of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Malaysia!

Hi everyone, my name is Jinghua Fan, I grew up in Beijing. I got my bachelor degree including a teacher-training component at the University of Shanxi. After graduating , I accepted a position at a elementary school and participated in a three month training program. During my child psychology training class I learned about Children Sensitive Period and Absorbent Mind. I was very curious and impressed with its philosophy. Once I entered the classroom I applied this new found understanding, I must say it was a great help. Since then I realized that teaching young minds would be my calling in life.

I moved to Bellevue in October 2015, shortly there after met my husband in an art class. A little over a year later we got married. During this time I joined the Jingmei elementary school as a volunteer. I am so excited that I will be able to continue to work with the kids at the school.

I know there is a lot of things I still need to learn about American educational philosophy and I look forward to embracing all that I can. Including my passion for teaching, I like reading, dancing, painting, calligraphy, and I’m also fond of exercising and traveling.

I read somewhere that “Education is a human right”, this is an ideal that I hold dearly. That being said, I’m ready to dedicate my life to improve the education of children and help them to grow and develop as happy adults.

Ms. Lisa Okahata-Paraeducator

Zhang Qiu-Xian-Kitchen ManagerHello, my name is Qiu-Xian Zhang. I am from Guang-Zhou, China. I have three sons who graduated from Newport. I enjoy going on walks and gardening. This will be my 13th year working for the Bellevue School District Nutrition Services. I previously worked at Tyee, Newport, and Central Kitchen. I am excited to begin working at Jing Mei!

Bellevue School District does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to designated youth groups. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination: Title IX Coordinator: Jeff Lowell, (425) 456-4010 or lowellj@bsd405.org; Section 504/ADA Coordinator: Heather Edlund, (425) 456-4156 or edlundh@bsd405.org; Civil Rights/Nondiscrimination Compliance Coordinator Alexa Allman (425) 456-4040 or allmana@bsd405.org. Mailing address for all three: 12111 NE 1st Street, Bellevue, WA 98005.

The Bellevue School District is also committed to providing a safe and civil educational environment that is free from harassment, intimidation or bullying. Report harassment, intimidation or bullying with SafeSchools Alert or at your school. The Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Compliance Officer is Patty Siegwarth.